NSCA CSCS Sport Psychology and Motivation 4

Question 1

Which psychological state is characterized by complete absorption in an activity, a sense of control, and intrinsic reward, often described as being 'in the zone'?

Accepted Answer

Flow state

Answer

Flow state, as described by Csikszentmihalyi, is a state of optimal experience marked by total concentration, effortlessness, and intrinsic enjoyment.

Question 2

An athlete repeatedly tells herself 'I am strong and I can do this' before a heavy lift. This technique is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

Positive self-talk

Answer

Positive self-talk involves using instructional or motivational internal statements to maintain confidence and optimal focus.

Question 3

Which of the following BEST describes the concept of competitive state anxiety?

Accepted Answer

Temporary feelings of tension and apprehension specific to a competitive situation

Answer

Competitive state anxiety is a transient emotional response (A-state) to competitive situations, varying in intensity across different events.

Question 4

Team cohesion in sport psychology is divided into task cohesion and social cohesion. Which type has the STRONGER relationship with team performance?

Accepted Answer

Task cohesion

Answer

Research consistently shows that task cohesion—commitment to achieving group goals—has a stronger positive relationship with team performance than social cohesion.

Question 5

A strength coach uses a points system where athletes earn rewards for completing extra conditioning work. This is an example of which behavioral principle?

Accepted Answer

Token economy/positive reinforcement

Answer

A token economy is a positive reinforcement system where tokens or points are earned for desired behaviors and exchanged for rewards.

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS - NSCA Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Practice Test

NSCA CSCS Sport Psychology and Motivation 4